Role of an Endogenously Synthesised Sterol in Regulating Cholesterol Removal from the Macrophage

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Heart disease remains the greatest killer of Australians and involves accumulation of cholesterol in the artery wall. Cholesterol accumulates in a specific cell-type called the macrophage (literally means ' big-eater'). Once macrophages accumulate cholesterol, they become bloated cholesterol-filled foam cells. The early and persistent appearance of foam cells in diseased artery suggests that foam cells are active participants in the development of heart disease. Prevention or reversal of their formation is therfore an attractive target for new therapies to treat heart disease. In this proposal, we address specific questions which will increase our understanding of how best to prevent or reverse foam cell formation. This work may indicate new therapeutic possibilities for combating heart disease.